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In utero radiation-induced apoptosis and p53 gene expression in the developing rat brain.
S Bolaris1, E Bozas, A Benekou
1Laboratory of Biology-Biochemistry, Faculty of Nursing, University of Athens, Greece.
International Journal of Radiation Biology
|February 24, 2001
Summary
Prenatal low-dose radiation exposure induces p53 gene expression and apoptosis in the developing rat brain. This study clarifies molecular mechanisms behind the developing brain's extreme radiosensitivity.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Radiation Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The developing brain exhibits extreme radiosensitivity.
- Understanding the molecular mechanisms of this radiosensitivity is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of the p53 gene in prenatal low-dose radiation-induced apoptosis in the neuroepithelium.
- To elucidate molecular mechanisms underlying the developing brain's radiosensitivity.
Main Methods:
- Pregnant Wistar rats were exposed to 10, 20, or 40 cGy of X-rays on gestation days 15 or 17.
- Apoptosis was assessed using DNA gel electrophoresis and TUNEL reaction.
- p53 gene expression (mRNA and protein) was analyzed via Northern, Western, and immunocytochemical methods.
Main Results:
- Low-dose in utero irradiation induced apoptosis and increased p53 gene expression in the developing rat brain.
- Apoptotic and p53-positive cells were observed in neuroepithelial cells, including neurons, even after 10 cGy.
- Both p53 protein and mRNA levels were elevated post-irradiation.
Conclusions:
- Low-dose prenatal irradiation triggers p53 induction.
- This induction leads to cell death via apoptosis in the developing brain.